Wilson thrives on field, may not hit hardwood

Adam Robison | Buy at photos.djournal.comDe’Runnya Wilson has been a key contributor at receiver for MSU as a freshman.

By Logan Lowery

Daily Journal

BIRMINGHAM, Ala. – De’Runnya Wilson was named Mr. Basketball in the state of Alabama last season at Wenonah High School.

The 6-foot-5, 215-pound power forward averaged 18.4 points and 15.8 rebounds as a senior leading the Dragons to a 34-2 record and a third straight state title.

However, Wilson spurned several basketball scholarships for the opportunity to play football at Mississippi State but also expressed a desire to walk on to the basketball team as well.

Originally during Wilson’s recruitment, both Dan Mullen and Rick Ray planned to share Wilson’s talents.

But Wilson is already making an impact on the gridiorn for State as a true freshman. He has appeared in all six games hauling in seven passes for 134 yards and a touchdown.

“I don’t think Dan and his staff thought that he would be a major impact player at the wide receiver spot right away,” Ray said. “I think they really thought he would redshirt his first year in college football.”

Ray is unsure if Wilson will suit up on the hardwood after football season is complete.

“I really haven’t addressed anything with ‘Bear’ at this point in time,” Ray said. “I want him to concentrate on football and more importantly concentrating on his academics. It’s hard enough being a student athlete in one sport, let alone two. I want make sure that doesn’t have an undue impact on his academics first and foremost.”